Learning what 10 acres in the foothills of East Tennessee has to teach as I trudge clumsily back to the land.

Sunday, March 22, 2009

Three signs spring has come to Appalachia

The first sign spring is here are mayapples (lower photo) that spring up in the woods. Also known as the umbrella plant, the plants shoot up almost overnight and ever so slowly unfold their leaves.

The second sign are the beautiful trillium (above) which pop about the same time as mayapples but in fewer numbers. Trillium are sensitive plants. Step on one and it quickly shrivels and dies. If you are in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, don't dare dig up one. It can cost you a hefty fine.

The third sign is my first yellow jacket sting of the season. My hand swelled so badly I couldn't get a glove on. After a dozen or so stings last year, I always keep the Benadryl close by.

If we have to have stings, it's also nice to have mayapples and trillium.

1 comment:

Have you found any morels in the neighborhood of your mayapples? My Daddy always told me that when he found one, he usually found the other.Speaking of finding, how delightful to find you here. charlene

About Me

After a career in newspapers and living in suburbs and cities all of our lives, my wife and I moved to a heavily wooded 10 acres in the Deerfield community of Louisville, Tennessee. We eagerly learn what this 10 acres has to teach.

Enlightenment

Barn Rules

If you unlock it, lock it back.If you open it, close it.If you borrow it, return it.If you don't know, ask.If you drive it, check the oil.If you lose it, replace it.If it doesn't concern you, don't mess with it.If you turn it on, turn it off.If you break it, fix it.If you move it, put it back.If you throw it down, pick it up.If you ride it, feed it.If it drinks water, give it some.If you fall off, get back on.